Kenneth K. McKinney Sr.

Kenneth K. “Ken”, “Monk” McKinney Sr., age 77, a resident of Havelock, NC, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Carolina East Medical Center while surrounded by his family. 

Ken was born on June 14, 1946, in Marion, North Carolina, to the late Jennings Bryan and Marjorie Kerlee McKinney. He grew up in Havelock and married the love of his life, Bobbie, on February 4, 1967, and together they had 3 sons, Kenneth Jr., Keith and Kurt. 

He proudly served in the U.S. Army and later retired from NADEP (now known as Fleet Readiness Center East), Cherry Point. Ken was a devoted family man who cherished spending time with his loved ones. Whether it was cheering on his favorite Havelock High School Rams football team or relishing in cookouts and camping adventures, he always brought joy and laughter to those around him. Ken was also a huge UNC Tarheels Basketball fan.

Ken accepted the Lord later in life and his thirst for learning more about Jesus grew and grew every day.  He loved having discussions about God with his sons.  Ken had a peace knowing that one day he would get to see his Lord and Savior.

Ken will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 57 years, Barbara “Bobbie” B. McKinney of the home; sons, Kenneth K. McKinney Jr. (Denise) of Havelock, NC, Keith K. McKinney (Jemima Faith “Mai”) of Morganton, NC, and Kurt K. McKinney (Adisti) of Newport, NC; sisters-in-law, Mildred “Millie” B. Smith (Morgan), Pat Bayliss, Nancy Bayliss and Pam Bayliss; 11 grandchildren, Chelsea Newlin, Kaileigh McKinney, Matthew McKinney, Taylor LaNasa, Nicole McKinney, Jonah McKinney, Mitchell McKinney, David McKinney, Andrea Jade “Anja” McKinney, Darren McKinney, and Kodi McKinney; and favorite dogs, Rocky and Maggie Mae. 

In addition to his parents, Kenneth was preceded in death by his sister, Shirley True; brother, Perry Luke McKinney; and grandson, Michael McKinney.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Havelock High School Rams Booster Club (www.hhsramsboosterclub.com), 101 Webb Boulevard, Havelock, NC  28532. 

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Cremations in Havelock, NC.